ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge designs 27,000 s/f dormitory building at Portsmouth Abbey

ARC/Architectural Resources Cambridge has designe a new student dormitory and faculty residence for the Portsmouth Abbey School. Portsmouth Abbey, a coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9-12, is located on a 500-acre campus. The 27,000 s/f building will contain 30 beds and 3 faculty residence units organized in a central corridor style. The new boy's dorm will feature a common room and central study area. Sustainable features include the use of roof-top solar panels which will provide anywhere from 60-100% of the building's hot water needs. Water saving toilets and faucets, energy efficient lighting and appliances as well as an efficient insulation system will also contribute to the building's sustainable design. Advanced Building Concepts is the general contractor for the project with a scheduled project completion in the summer of 2012 and occupancy in the fall of 2012. This is ARC's second housing project on the campus, having completed St. Brigid's House in 2007. The design will integrate local vernacular as well as elements of the existing architectural style of the campus. The building reinforces the concept of a "campus green" as the heart of the residential zone.